The Newbie Guide: Android Pay Walkthrough

Android Pay is an e-payment system that allows you to use your android device as your e-wallet. That means you can pay for every goods or service in any store that supports this kind of payment system. Aside from its convenience, this new payment system will help provide security, as you won’t need to bring any cash or card when you shop around the city.

With this new payment system, you just need a few taps on your android device, then, whenever you want, your phone will be scanned by a contactless reader, providing a secured transaction. This is not only safer than using your card, when sensitive information will be read by a machine, but also more convenient, since you don’t need to go through your wallet searching for cash or card.

Note: At the moment, this new e-payment concept is only available in the U.S and the United Kingdom.

Okay, let’s run down the things that you need to make this work.

Android device compatibility test

For starters, your android device should be at least on Android 4.4 or higher and your device must support NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. If your phone is not compliant with the requirements, you might want to check for an update before considering purchasing a new android device.

Bank support check

This e-payment system is just starting, so don’t expect for all the banks to already support this kind of cashless transactions. You should consider checking your bank first, by phoning them and asking if they support such payment scheme.

Santander and NatWest assured their stakeholders that they will support Android Pay, sometime later this year. On the other hand, Barclays is suggesting to have other payment option, using other e-payment application – Google might want to persuade Barclay for this.

Disappointed because your bank is not on the list? You shouldn’t. Because several companies are currently bridging other financial organizations to accept or integrate Android Pay in their system.

If your bank is on the list, we strongly suggest to phone your bank first and verify if your account is eligible to avail this service. Also, ask questions on how you will be able to process this with your account.

Get the application

You can get the Android Pay app on Google Play store. Download the application if it’s not on your android device stock rom.

Set up screen security

If you are determined to use this payment system, securing your android device’s screen should be on the top of your to-do-list. By doing this, you will protect yourself from any unauthorized use of your Android Pay account. It is up to you what type of security you will choose: the pattern lock, pin code, or the fingerprint security feature.

To do this, go to SETTINGS —> SECURITY —> Screen Lock. Choose which is suitable for you, then follow the on-screen instructions to set your display security. If your android device is capable of rendering fingerprint scanning feature, that will be the best security option amongst all. Of course, your fingerprint is unique. No one can unlock your android phone except you (the owner), if that will be your choice.

Add your card information

Open Android Pay and look for the option where you will need to add your card information. You can use your credit or debit card for this process. Tap the “+” sign on the bottom part, then you will be prompted to select which card to use. Link the card to your Android Pay app by tapping “add a credit or debit card”, then follow the on-screen instructions.

After successfully linking your card to the app, the latter will require you to have a snapshot of your card. Place it somewhere well lighted, on the top of the table, for instance, to capture a good photo. The picture should be clear and should have your card information. If the camera didn’t work automatically, you can also do it in manual mode by tapping “add manually”, then enter your card details. Once it’s done, you will be required to verify your card. Choose the option that best suits you, whether its verification through email or via SMS.

Set up your primary payment card

You are almost there!

If you have a single card, then you should skip the next step– the card that you linked will be your primary card.

If you have multiple cards, then you should set the default payment card by tapping the chosen card twice, and tap “Set as the default card.” You can switch to your other card by just repeating the process, to make it as your default payment card.

Go shopping!

You are now fully set to purchase your first buy! At the checkout counter, there will be a contactless terminal that will scan your phone and process your payments. The default spending limit of every transaction is $30 or £30. However, if you’re a big spender and you plan to go over that limit, know that every payment that exceeds the £30 requires your approval. Basically, you’ll need to tap and unlock your phone using your pin code, or use whichever safety measure you chose. For every transaction, you will receive a notification, telling you about the transaction that you processed. The notification will be sent quickly, so just make sure that your phone is not turned off.

If you have some Android Pay adventures and experiences, please share it in the comment section below.